Do I need to make a booking Mantaray Barges?

This is preferred, the Manta Ray Barge runs on demand from the hours of 6am – 5pm daily.

Can I pay on board?

Yes, Cash is preferred; the EFT machines are unreliable in peak season, due to the influx of people using the Wi-Fi in our little town. You can also book and pay online.

Does the barge take walk on passengers?

Yes, you pay the deckhand as you board the barge.

Can I still travel across on high tide?

It is at the customer’s discretion on when they enter K’gari (Fraser Island), the best driving time is 2 hours either side of low tide.

What are the barge operating times?

Mantaray Barges operate daily from 6am till 5pm Mon – Sun.

What are the beaches conditions like?

For condition reports please go to Queensland Parks website.

Do you still operate in bad weather?

The operating times will be affected during King Tides or Cyclones, keep up to date on our Facebook page and website.

Does the barge have a toilet on board?

Yes.

Can we get out of our vehicles on the barge?

Yes.

Does the barge operate Christmas Day?

Yes they operate and a roster is released closer to these dates.

Where does the barge depart from and land on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

The barge operates Inskip point to Hook Point.

How long does it take to get to places from the barge landing on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

Eurong 30 mins | Central Station 1 hour | Lake McKenzie 1 hour | Maheno Wreck 1 hour | Eli creek 1 hour | Cathedrals 1 hour 15 mins | Dundabura 1.5 hours | Waddy Point 2.5 hours | Kingfisher 2.5 hours | Sandy Cape 3.5 hours

What is the recommended tyre pressure?

It is recommended to drop tyre pressure to 18 psi.

Are there patrolled beaches and when are they patrolled?

There are No patrolled beaches on K’gari (Fraser Island). The nearest patrolled beach is at Rainbow Beach.

Are there restaurants and other places to eat on the island?

There are a variety of restaurants and cafes on K’gari (Fraser Island), with fresh local seafood often on the menu. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available at a number of different locations.

Can I go whale watching on K’gari (Fraser Island)?

Land based whale watching is extremely popular on the Island. Humpback whales can be seen between June and November from a number of vantage points. Each year in the Southern Hemisphere humpback whales migrate from their summer Antarctic feeding grounds, along Australia’s continental coastline to tropical regions to breed and calve in winter.

Are dogs allowed on the island and is there accommodation or camping locations that will accept them?

Dogs are not allowed on K’gari (Fraser Island).

Can I take a caravan or trailer to the island and how much does it cost?

Caravan and trailers, which are attached to a vehicle, can travel to the Island. Please visit our tickets page to see prices.

Do I need a 4WD permit? Where can I purchase it from and how much does it cost?

4WD permits are required when driving on the beach or camping on K’gari (Fraser Island). The team at Mantaray Barges can assist you with this and you can book online at: www.nprsr.qld.gov.au or purchase from our Mantaray Barges Permit Office at Rainbow Beach. Permits must be purchased prior to departure.

Do I need to book my campsite and who do I contact?

All campsites, including foreshore camping, must be booked and paid for prior to arrival. We recommend you book in advance in peak times such as Christmas, New Year, Easter and school holidays. For bookings contact our rainbow Beach booking office on (07) 5486 3935 or check availability & book online at: www.nprsr.qld.gov.au

How do I get to K’gari (Fraser Island) and do I need a 4WD?

K’gari (Fraser Island) is only accessible by 4WD or Tour bus service or bush walkers. The only way to get to K’gari (Fraser Island) is by the barge services.

What shops are available on the island?

General stores and fuel are available at Eurong, Happy Valley, Cathedrals and Kingfisher and Orchid Beach Store providing groceries, bread, alcohol, bait, ice, meat, vegetables, souvenirs, resort wear, camping equipment, fishing gear, postage facilities and telephones.

What do I do if I have an accident on the island?

There is a Police Station at Eurong. First aid and emergency medical assistance can be obtained from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service ranger stations. In the event of an emergency please call 000.